THE FRAGRANCE OF WORSHIP
Today's reading: 2 Samuel 14:1-15:12, John 11:55-12:19, Psalm 88:1-9

"Then Mary took a twelve-ounce jar of expensive perfume made from essence of nard, and she anointed Jesus' feet with it and wiped his feet with her hair. And the house was filled with fragrance." John 12:3 NLT

Imagine with me the smell that drifted through that little house in Bethany. The action, the act, the worship may have happened in the 'living room', but the effects of it extended to the four corners and out the front door.

That's what happens with worship. It reaches in and it reaches out.

And it has a fragrance that is as unique as the worshiper. Scents that bring about remembrance and honor to God.

The smell of peppermint reminds me of "Candy Man" from my childhood church. He always had peppermints in his pocket for us kids. He was dependable in his attendance and unswerving in his ministry to us, his sweet-toothed followers.

The smell of peonies reminds me of faithfulness. My Grandma grew peonies, hardy, returning year after year, showy for a short season but oh, so dependable...the peonies and Grandma's love and devotion.

The smell of newly plowed earth reminds me of hope as the farmers till the ground and await God's blessing on a harvest.

The smell of fresh bread reminds me of the act of service, getting one's hands dirty in an effort to provide for another.

The smell of peanut butter, yes, peanut butter, smeared on Ritz crackers and served with grape Kool-Aid, reminds me of Christian legacy. You see, it's what I was served at Vacation Bible School every year of my growing up. And those growing up years, surrounded by Christian people, a supportive church and accounts of Bible greats, are what have made me who I am today.

I'm thinking this morning about what my worship smells like to others.

Is it refreshing? Encouraging? Soothing? Hope-filled? Genuine?

What about yours?